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We just said goodbye to summer so it’s difficult to think about winter weather already, however, October is often a time when the temperature drops outside and things heat up on the inside.
Now is the time to prepare safety measures for the coming months as sometimes the greatest danger can be lurking inside your own properties.
Carbon monoxide (CO) gas is one of the most widespread and dangerous industrial hazards. It is the most common cause of occupational gas poisoning leading to death1. It can be lethal at concentrations as low as 1000 parts per million (ppm).
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), CO is responsible for more than 50,000 visits to the emergency room and over 400 deaths each year2. It is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas which interferes with the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.
Often known as the “silent killer”, CO is non-irritating and can overcome persons without warning. While CO is a concern that should be considered at all times, cold weather increases the use of gas-powered furnaces, as well as the use of alternative heating and power sources (portable generators, charcoal briquettes, propane stoves or grills), drastically increasing risk exposures in the winter months.
This has also been amplified by the use of portable outdoor heaters due to the increased enclosed outdoor structures brought on by COVID.
One of the most memorable incidents involved a seafood restaurant on Long Island where CO exposure led to one death and 28 hospitalizations.
This is unfortunately just one of many as incidents of carbon monoxide poisoning are not uncommon in restaurants and are often fatal, leaving businesses in damaging situations they may not ever recover from.
Ensuring a safe working environment is essential to worker health and safety. Carbon monoxide poses an unseen risk that can easily be monitored and thus controlled.
It is important that owners and managers look at tragic incidents such as this to examine their own restaurants and safety practices in order to prevent future incidents.
The following reflects the most recent guidelines and safety standards for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning, based on the latest data from the CDC and CPSC in 2023 and 2024.
Generator Safety:
- Never operate a portable generator inside your home, garage, basement, crawlspace, shed, or any other enclosed or partially enclosed space. Opening doors or windows does not provide sufficient ventilation to prevent CO buildup.
- Always operate generators outdoors, at least 20 feet away from your house. Direct the exhaust away from homes and any buildings to prevent CO from entering. Avoid placing generators on porches or in carports as these areas are still too close to the home.
- Ensure your generator is properly maintained by checking and following all labels, instructions, and warnings in the owner’s manual.
- Newer Safety Features: Look for portable generators with a CO shut-off safety feature, which automatically shuts down the generator if high CO levels are detected. Models certified to the latest safety standards (PGMA G300-2018 and UL 2201) can significantly reduce CO poisoning risks.
Space Heaters and Other Heating Systems:
- Fuel-burning systems like furnaces and fireplaces can emit CO if not properly installed or maintained. Have a professional inspect all fuel-burning heating systems annually.
- Keep at least 3 feet of clearance around space heaters to avoid fire hazards, and always place them on a stable, level surface.
- Never leave portable heaters unattended, especially while sleeping, and ensure they are not placed in confined spaces.
CO and Smoke Alarms:
- Install battery-operated or battery-backup CO alarms on each level of your home and outside sleeping areas. Interconnected alarms are best because when one alarm sounds, they all do.
- Test CO and smoke alarms monthly, replace batteries as needed, and never ignore an alarm. If it sounds, get outside immediately and call 911.
General Safety Measures for Businesses:
- Restaurants and other businesses should install CO detectors and ensure that alarm systems, security systems, and other safety equipment are functioning properly.
- Implement comprehensive emergency management planning, starting with a vulnerability analysis to identify risks. Develop a response plan detailing roles, responsibilities, emergency procedures, and a communication strategy.
- Train employees on the emergency plan, and regularly test and update the plan, ensuring it meets current risks.
Reputation Management:
If a CO leak or similar crisis occurs, having a clear plan on how to manage the aftermath, including media interaction, is crucial to minimize reputational damage.
Additional Tips:
- Clear snow from vents for fuel-burning appliances to prevent CO buildup indoors.
- Avoid using charcoal indoors or in enclosed spaces, as burning charcoal can produce lethal CO levels.
By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest safety standards and practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of CO poisoning and ensure a safer environment both at home and in businesses.
It’s Time to Review Carbon Monoxide Safety For Your Restaurant Operations (totalfood.com)
